Chapter 9: The Falling Empire
The turning point came on the third day of the hearing. Forensic accountants hired by the state confirmed that the digital signatures on the fraudulent transfers matched Victoria Sterling’s private offshore accounts. Furthermore, additional evidence revealed that the Sterling Syndicate had been deliberately sabotaging Vance shipping vessels to drive down company stock values for a hostile takeover.
The scandal erupted across the financial world. By afternoon, the Sterling family’s corporate partners began cutting ties. Arrest warrants were issued for Lord Arthur Sterling on charges of grand larceny and conspiracy.
In the hallway outside the courtroom, Victoria approached Julian while her lawyers were arguing with prosecutors. Her composure was entirely gone; her hair was disheveled, and her eyes were wild with desperation.
"Julian, please!" Victoria pleaded, reaching for his arm. "You can't do this to my family! We were going to be united! We belonged together!"
Julian stepped back, his expression cold and unyielding. "You brought this upon yourself, Victoria. You mistreated the innocent, threw away your integrity, and thought your wealth would shield you from consequences."
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"She’s just a maid!" Victoria screamed, pointing a shaking finger at Clara, who stood nearby supported by Mrs. Gable. "She’s nothing!"
"She has more dignity in her little finger than you have in your entire lineage," Julian said quietly. "Goodbye, Victoria."
